Yes, the internet is in itself a scary place that an be hard to navigate. You must wade through what sometimes seems bogus information to finally find a diamond. Here are some tips to help you out:

1.) Keep your searches simple.

Don’t search for something on the net like “Humor between 1935 and 1936 that involved goats”. Chances are your search will not yield any information. Use searches that are a little broader and take the time to comb through it. “Humor between 1935 and 1936” will yield a much greater result.

2.) Verify the legitimacy of a webpage source.

A lot of people will claim to be “knowledgeable”. However if you use this “knowledge” in your paper ; you may find yourself lacking credibility. Check to see if the page is updated regularly. Anything less then bi-annually is most likely not going to give you the best information. Check to see if there is a way to contact the authors of the information. Respectable and self-conscious writers usually leave a way to contact them.

3.) Is the page endorsed by a Nationally or Internationally organization within the field of study?

If the authors and their work are recognized by an institution that is within the field of study spoken about, the material is most likely safe to use as a legitimate source.

4.) Use your own judgment.

The most important thing to remember is to use your own judgment. If it doesn't feel right or something is amiss; chances are you do not want to use the site as a source. Most internet sites do not cite as well. If you have time find out the sources of the information being presented.